GENESISSpanish nationality in 2 years (if you're Latin American)
This is one of the biggest advantages for Latin Americans: while most foreigners need 10 years of residence to apply for Spanish nationality, nationals of Latin American countries only need 2 years. Here's how.
Why 2 years and not 10?
The Spanish Civil Code sets a reduced term of 2 years of legal residence for nationals of Ibero-American countries (all of Latin America), plus Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal and people of Sephardic origin. For other nationalities the general term is 10 years.
The full path
- You get legal residence (for example, with the digital nomad visa).
- You live in Spain legally and continuously for 2 years.
- From there you can apply for nationality by residence.
Key requirements
- 2 years of legal, uninterrupted residence right before applying.
- The CCSE exam (constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain).
- The DELE A2 language exam is usually not required for Latin Americans, since Spanish is their official language.
- Good civic conduct and a clean criminal record.
The best part: you keep your nationality
Spain allows dual nationality with Latin American countries. That means you can become Spanish without renouncing your original nationality.
At GENESIS we help you get your residence and plan the path to nationality from day one.
Frequently asked questions
Is it true Latin Americans get Spanish nationality in 2 years?
Yes. Nationals of Ibero-American countries can apply for nationality after just 2 years of legal, continuous residence, versus 10 years under the general regime.
Do I have to renounce my original nationality?
No. Spain has dual-nationality agreements with Latin American countries, so you can keep your original nationality.
Which exams do I need to pass?
The CCSE exam on knowledge of Spain. The DELE A2 language exam is usually not required for Spanish speakers from countries where Spanish is the official language.
Want to know if you qualify?
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